Newport City Fire upgrades extrication equipment, enhances rescue capabilities

NEWPORT — Last night, the Newport City Fire Department officially deployed its newly acquired Holmatro extrication tools, marking a significant upgrade in their rescue capabilities. The introduction of these advanced tools was accompanied by specialized training provided by Industrial Protection Services.

The departments latest additions include the Holmatro series 50 and series 60 cutters, spreaders, series 50 rams, and a series 60 combination tool. This new equipment replaces the 20-year-old extrication tools, which had reached the end of their service life and were no longer supported by the manufacturer. Also introduced were the Rescue42 Shark step chocks and Rescue42 TeleCrib struts.

Significantly, the new tools are powered by Lithium-Ion battery-operated hydraulic systems, a notable improvement over the two-decade-old technology previously in use. These advancements provide enhanced speed, power, and ergonomics while operating much more quietly. This reduction in noise is particularly beneficial in reducing patient anxiety during rescue operations.

The updated equipment is a crucial development for the department ensuring they remain equipped to handle modern vehicle constructions effectively. This upgrade has been made possible through the support of the City Council and the residents of Newport, reflecting the community’s commitment to maintaining a state-of-the-art emergency response capability.

Special acknowledgment was given to Ray’s Auto Service for their contribution to the training session by supplying a car and adapting it specifically for the exercise. The training ensured that the CNFD team is fully prepared to utilize these new tools in real-world scenarios, ultimately enhancing their ability to respond to emergencies and save lives.